25-Jun-07 9:15 AM EDT

Filipina Women's Network to recognize 100 most influential Filipino women in the U.S

The Filipina Women's Network (FWN)’s search for the 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the U.S. in now underway. FWN shall recognize these 100 Filipino women who have shifted the course of events in their own area of influence through ideas, activities, or interactions at a special awards event during the 5th Annual Filipina Summit to be held on October 25- 27, 2007 in Washington DC.

FWN’s nationwide search for 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the U.S. is a groundbreaking endeavor to bring together Filipina women recognized for their influence in shaping the Filipino American community nationally, in their local communities, in their organizations and professional practices, and in public policy and industry. It is a part of FWN’s campaign to change public perceptions of Filipino women’s capabilities to lead, innovate and influence the society. Moreover, it is a celebration of 100 years of Filipino presence in America.

“Filipinas have been praised as the ‘silent but talented minority group’ and at the same time perceived as ‘submissive and exotic,’ overlooking their leadership and management skills. It is time that we actively promote Filipina women's capacities to lead, manage, and persuade,” said Ms. Marily Mondejar, President of the Filipina Women's Network (www.ffwn.org). “It is a shame that many Filipina women are not recognized in their positions of power and influence. We need to change that,” she added.

The search for 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the U.S. is an initiative of Filipina Power 2012, a result of the Filipina Summit's Future Search last October, which was born with a powerful purpose to create strong leadership in the Filipino American community by 2012.

“We call on these women to collaborate resources towards continuing their work and seek their assistance in 'womantoring' the next generation of Filipina leaders. Their experiences need to be shared and we invite them to help in the succession planning of our community,” said Filipina Women's Network (www.ffwn.org) Board Chair, Tessie Zaragoza.

The Filipina Women's Network is a non-profit association for women of Philippine ancestry. FWN provides educational resources through publications, lectures, activities, and programs to further the professional and personal development of its members.

Nominations for FWN’s 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the U.S. is extended until June 30, 2007. More details about the search are available at www.ffwn.org.